The Castle’s own Women of Hoban encourages girls of all grades to unite and engage in enriching projects centered around building each other up as women.
The women are led by Hoban staffer Kristen Heller, with additional support from other members who assist in planning and scheduling each meeting. Typically gathering on Fridays and Wellness Wednesdays, the group undertakes diverse activities at each session. Furthermore, they ensure that each holiday is celebrated with a fitting and festive event.
For instance, during Christmas, the girls brought in various festively shaped, cut-out cookies and spent time decorating them as a group while sharing their creations with Hoban’s lunch ladies. In February, the club displayed hearts by Admissions, allowing Hoban students to fill in the blanks on what love means to them and share their thoughts.
Junior Mary Hottinger shares that her most memorable event has been selling bracelets for Threads of Hope, an organization raising money to protect victims of human trafficking in the Philippines. Hottinger says, “Being able to make a difference for other women was so encouraging.” She closes by saying she was proud to feel progress was being made in the adversities we fight against.
The Women of Hoban take time to engage in discussions with strong females working in the school, such as Coach Maddie. At other times, the girls may create blankets for the Homeless Memorial Blanket Project at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church and enjoy sweet treats provided by Heller.
Heller says, “I would love to do a service project and get more going for the club.” Creating vision boards that allow everyone to lay out ideas and work towards individual goals is also an interest of the club.
Above all, Women of Hoban aims to provide an empowering environment for all to enjoy. As the group continues to grow, there is no doubt that the girls will continue to uplift each other as a community, applying the skills they have acquired during their time in the club and embracing the belief that women can accomplish anything!
